WINTER 2021
NORTH PARKER
VOLUME 81
The New Normal Showing creativity and flexibility, the North Park community thrived in the midst of a pandemic.
The magazine for alumni and friends of North Park University
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First Word: “A Year Like No Other”
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Homecoming from Home
THE 2020 HONOR ROLL OF DONORS AND ANNUAL REPORT Now Available Online at www.northpark.edu/honorroll
Each year we are blessed with the generous support of many individuals, families, and organizations. We recognize these gifts through the Honor Roll of Donors and Annual Report. We publish these online as a way to make the Honor Roll available to a broader audience and to prudently steward the University’s resources. The gifts from our donors support the breadth of the student scholarships and campus activities and ensure the vital mission of our University. We express our deep gratitude for your generosity and faithfulness. Every effort is made to properly recognize your gifts. For questions, comments, or further information, please contact the Office of Advancement at 866-366-8096 or via email at advancement@northpark.edu.
CONTENTS
FEATURES
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The New Normal Amidst a global pandemic, North Park successfully reimagined life on campus. Here’s how.
20 Homecoming From Home
18 Black Student Union marks 50 years
Homecoming 2020 was virtual this year.
Founding president Cornelius DuBose C’72 spoke with students during Homecoming week.
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CONTENTS
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DEPARTMENTS 05 First Word
WINTER 2021, VOLUME 81, NUMBER 1
08 Across Campus
EDITORIAL BOARD
Mary K. Surridge President
12 Faculty Authors
Melissa Vélez-Luce C’04 G’12 Executive Director of Operations, Office of the President
26 Giving
Kristin Englund C’10 Associate Director of Alumni Relations
30 Alumni Notes & In Memoriam ON THE COVER
Social distancing and masking became habitual last fall.
36 From the Archives Library receives grant to preserve community’s oral history.
Lindsey Post Robinson C’05 Operations Manager, University Marketing and Communications EDITORIAL STAFF
Ellen Almer C’94 Editor Susannah Kim Lead Designer Sarah Shull Graphic Designer Phil Dembinski Ethan Oliver C’19 Photographers Rebekah Putera C’13 Online Editor Macayla Dowling Andy Meyer C’06 Writers
The North Parker is published twice a year for alumni and friends of North Park University, 3225 W. Foster Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625-4895. For mailing list adjustments, address changes, questions, or suggestions, please contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 773-244-4750.
16 Honoring Our Retirees NPU celebrates 15 retiring faculty and staff members.
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First Word “Joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12
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PRESIDENT MARY K. SURRIDGE
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ith our historic fall semester complete, a new class of North Park graduates celebrating their winter Commencement, we give thanks for the joy brought by a blessed Christmas season, and look forward with hope to the new year. Thanks to hard work, perseverance, and God’s provision, North Park University delivered a safe, strong, and successful Fall 2020 semester for our students. In a year like no other, we kept our two highest priorities front and center in all our work: Protecting the health and safety of our campus community; and ensuring the successful educational progress of our students. Collaboration and creativity across the university have been the hallmarks of this good work, and in the pages that follow you will see and read about so many wonderful examples of this in our new normal. A deep word of thanks goes to our students, faculty, staff and administration for their hard work, cooperation, resiliency and faithfulness. Our students were very grateful to be together on campus this fall, and even though everyone had to adjust plans, expectations and goals, North Park is united in the feeling that we are all in this together. This good work was noted in a message for our campus community, that I received from a former trustee just before Thanksgiving: “Congratulations again on completing your fall program…as I told you, I have never seen a more difficult management environment than you all have faced. EVER! And you and your team met the challenge!”
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In a year like no other, we kept our two highest priorities front and center in all our work: Protecting the health and safety of our campus community; and ensuring the successful educational progress of our students. We remain deeply grateful for the leadership of our trustees, for the courage and confidence to endorse our plans for reopening, and to keep us accountable for continued safety and progress.
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And I am happy to report that managing pandemic challenges is not the only vital work we are pursuing at the University this year! We have also made important progress in pursuit of our strategic agenda: Advancing our work in North Park Next, the university strategic planning process that will ultimately strengthen our university by stewarding our existing resources well, improving our financial position, and inspiring investors. It will allow us to advance our mission and achieve our vision of emerging as the model for Christian higher education in 21st Century America. Preparing for our institutional re-accreditation visit and evaluation with the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) in April; producing evidence for the five criteria of institutional assessment required as part of the Open Pathway model.
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NORTH PARK NEXT The institutional review and strategic planning efforts, North Park Next, are progressing steadily. We know that in the sum and interaction of our three distinctives —Christian, city-centered, and intercultural—North Park University finds its unique value, its competitive advantage to become a singularly compelling model for Christian higher education in 21st Century America. To seize our compelling opportunity, and to ultimately support student access and success, the University must meet the challenges facing all of higher education. These include demographic shifts and a decline in the number of high school graduates over the next decade; increased competition from alternatives to the traditional college campus experience; the pandemic’s impact on students and families already concerned about college affordability and barriers to graduation. Any one of these factors would be a significant challenge. We are navigating them all at once. That is why we are examining and optimizing our academic portfolio, prioritizing our commitment to student success, and improving our current practices to secure a strong financial future and the healthy financial margin we need to advance our mission, reward innovation, and improve compensation and support. Through North Park Next, the Academic Prioritization, Review and Enhancement Team is assessing our academic portfolio to identify new programs that could help us increase enrollment and net revenue; reviewing existing programs we can enhance to attract more students; and reviewing under-enrolled programs we can adjust to steward our resources well. I have been encouraged by the positive progress of this broadly representative team, and the detailed, inspiring work that will lead to recommendations for a sustainable and promising future. Broad based strategic planning—including evaluation of institutional operating structures, co-curricular programs and campus facilities—will be underway in January, will include broad community input, and will result in a strategy map to propel us
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forward with a detailed plan to guide our work in the coming years. Another vital part of North Park Next will be our commitment to improving issues of racial equity, in part through a North Park adaptation of the Evangelical Covenant Church’s “Six-Fold Test” as a framework for our ongoing life and work in community. This framework examines current realities and develops methods for moving North Park forward in these six areas: Population: Is the University increasing and supporting students, faculty and staff from diverse populations? Participation: Are we finding ways to engage life together through education, worship, events, service and fellowship? Power: Do the positions and structures of influence include the perspectives and gifts of diverse populations? Pacesetting: With the range of perspectives, needs and gifts in our midst, what opportunities can the University strengthen and initiate?
Purposeful Narrative: How do the stories of all backgrounds become incorporated into our overarching history? How do all of these streams flow together into our blended story moving forward? Practicing Solidarity: In what ways are we purposefully and measurably advancing the access and success of our intercultural student community? Members of the President’s Cabinet are working with campus colleagues to bring this framework to the North Park community. HOW FAR WE HAVE COME TOGETHER As we continue our daily planning to welcome our students back for the spring semester, and prepare for several possible scenarios, we are focusing our attention and energy on solving the next challenges. But as I noted in remarks at a November meeting of the full faculty, it is also valuable to stop and remember how far we have come together in “the most difficult environment we have ever seen.”
We pivoted in a week last spring, kept our students and our campus safe, finished the spring semester and graduated our class. North Park Next was launched and planning is gaining momentum. We set an operational plan for the fall, and successfully recruited a strong incoming, undergraduate class. We prepared the campus all summer with new protocols, new schedules, new air systems, new room capacities, new residence hall realities and new library schedules and adjustments. And we opened the fall semester—in person, on time. We adjusted our protocols to meet the changing environment and we finished the fall semester successfully. Through ALL of this, we give thanks to God—for His great provision, for His presence with us, and for this opportunity to deepen our understanding of His promises that sustain us. We know there is hard work ahead, but we will not fear that hard work or the future. For we know that God does not give us a spirit of fear—but rather, a spirit of power, and of love, and of sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7) And we will call on that power—His power in us through the Holy Spirit, who walks with us and lives in us. And the spirit of love—who came to us first as the sweet baby in Bethlehem—born to save us. He will give us the sound mind that we will need to face the future that is tomorrow—next month—next semester—next year—and every year to come. To the beloved alumni community of North Park University, thank you! For your prayers, your encouragement and your financial support. We remain deeply grateful for you—and I am honored to serve our vital mission. Enjoy this edition of the North Parker! IN CHRIST,
MARY K. SURRIDGE, PRESIDENT
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Across Campus
Threshold 2020 Despite restrictions imposed by our “new normal,” the annual event for new and returning students was as warm and welcoming as ever.
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he process and set-up may have looked and felt a little different last fall, but the goal of Threshold 2020 was the same as ever: Welcoming new students to North Park’s campus and helping them settle in. Under tents that were set up on Christiana Avenue in front of Sohlberg Hall, new students were greeted by current students, faculty, and staff following socially distant protocols. Student arrivals were spaced out throughout the week, as opposed to a weekend, to avoid large gatherings, and temperature checks were administered before anyone was allowed on campus. New in 2020: Students checking in stopped to pick up a “goodie” bag contain-
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News about our students, faculty and staff, and alums.
ing a thermometer, hand sanitizer, and a Viking-blue, NPU-branded face mask, along with their student ID. In addition, most in-person social gatherings were canceled in favor of virtual events, including a scavenger hunt, bingo and trivia games, and Netflix watch parties. The main ice-breaker event was held in person on the football field, with students gathering in small groups to meet fellow classmates, all while wearing masks and practicing social distancing. The welcome week was capped off with an outdoor CollegeLife service, held on the campus green in front of the Nancy and G. Timothy Johnson Center for Science and Community Life.
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NPRESS Program Pairs Students with Faculty Mentors Now in its fifth year, the summer research project offers students the chance to delve deeply into a topic with professor guidance.
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he North Park Research Experience for Summer Students (NPRESS) went on as planned last summer despite the pandemic. As a part of the program, now in its fifth year, four students worked closely with professors in their chosen field on a research project. Each student finished the summer by presenting their research findings (virtually) on topics ranging from Fine Art and Philosophy to History and Political Science. “My mentor really helped me think about how art can respond to ideas from the academic world in various ways, which led me down interesting avenues,” said art student Emmanuel Carrillo, who studied Fine Art and Philosophy with Professor
“The online NPRESS experience required Dr. Doherty and me to adapt our original aims of this project, but I am thankful I was able to conduct remote interviews and I will hopefully continue this research in the future.” Gabrielle Rigg
Nostalgia of the Present: Art and Design in Response to Cultural Hauntology
MIAKALA RATH
DR. MARK GAVOOR
Quality Transformation in Higher Education
EMMANUEL CARRILLO
KELLY VANDERBRUG
Keeping up with the Kim: An Ethnonarrative of the Kardashian Empire
GABRIELLE RIGG
DR. SARAH DOHERTY
Unlikely Neighbor: The Relationship between Anglo and Japanese Farmers in the Central Valley of California during World War II
DONNA SHERGARFI
DR. DANIEL WHITE HODGE
Kelly VanderBrug, and presented “Nostalgia of the Present: Art and Design in Response to Cultural Hauntology.” “I ventured forth from my comfort zone in painting and drawing to more experimental work in performance and video art.” Mentored by Dr. Mark Gavoor, Miakala Rath presented “Quality Transformation in Higher Education.” Rath, a senior Business Management major, studied metrics and quality transformation models to measure improvement in higher education. Gabrielle Rigg, who is majoring in History and who graduated this winter, collaborated with Dr. Sarah Doherty to present “Unlikely Neighbor: The Relationship between Anglo and Japanese Farmers in the Central Valley of California during World War II.” Inspired to continue her project, Rigg said, “The
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online NPRESS experience required Dr. Doherty and me to adapt our original aims of this project, but I am thankful I was able to conduct remote interviews and I will hopefully continue this research in the future.” As a senior majoring in Political Science and Communications, Donna Shergarfi conducted research on the appropriation of Black culture under the mentorship of Dr. Daniel White Hodge. During the virtual event, Shergarfi presented “Keeping up with the Kim: An Ethnonarrative of the Kardashian Empire.” North Park’s previous NPRESS graduates have applied their research experience, moving on to a range of graduate studies including STEM, sociology, and philosophy.
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Co-Pastor Laura Kraybill joins University Ministries Kraybill, who was hired just before the pandemic hit, is adjusting to the new challenges of pastoring to students remotely.
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ampus Co-Pastor and Outreach Chaplain Laura Kraybill joined North Park’s University Ministries staff in March, sharing duties with Co-Pastor and Athletic Chaplain Terence Gadsden. Kraybill, a missionary and pastor’s kid who moved frequently but considers Elkhart, Indiana her hometown, began at North Park just before the pandemic hit. With remote learning beginning shortly after her arrival, she didn’t have a lot of time to get to know students. “It was a strange way to begin my job, but especially a job that is as relational as a campus pastor,” Kraybill said. “It’s been good to be back in person this fall and meet students, although I hear the hustle and bustle isn’t the same as pre-pandemic days.” Kraybill was previously the Chaplain Resident at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago.
“None of us could have figured out how to minister well alone, but together we are discovering God’s call to new ministry initiatives that might not have occurred had things stayed ‘normal.’” Laura Kraybill, Campus Co-Pastor and Outreach Chaplain
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She received her bachelor’s degree from Goshen College, a master’s in theatre education from Emerson University, and a Master of Divinity from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. Kraybill was attracted to North Park because of its commitment to being Christian, city-centered, and intercultural. “The opportunity to minister within a community dedicated to God’s call in Jeremiah to ‘seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile,’ resonates with my understanding of loving our neighbors.” She credits University Ministries with being creative in how they are able to minister despite social distancing and other limitations imposed by the pandemic. “None of us could have figured out how to minister well alone, but together we are discovering God’s call to new ministry initiatives that might not have occurred had things stayed ‘normal.’”
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Chapel Al Fresco With proper social distancing and mask-wearing, students, faculty, and staff enjoyed outdoor Chapel services.
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hanks to the faithful staff in University Ministries, students, faculty, and staff were able to enjoy Chapel services outdoors at the beginning of the year. The services were held August 26 and September 2, and incorporated live worship, Scripture readings, and inspiring messages delivered by Campus Co-Pastors Terence Gadsden and Laura Kraybill. In the midst of social distancing, the campus green outside the Johnson Center served as the “chapel.” The dozens of students, faculty, and staff in attendance savored this time to be together in worship. Once the weather turned cool, Chapel and Sunday night CollegeLife services returned to a virtual format on Facebook Live.
CATALYST ON CAMPUS
Remote edition George Floyd’s relatives shared memories of their nephew, along with thoughts on racial justice and the Black Lives Matter movement.
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n what would’ve been George Floyd Jr.’s 47th birthday, the Office of Diversity and Intercultural Life and Catalyst 606 sponsored the live event: A Conversation about George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter Movement. George Floyd’s Aunt Angela Harrelson and Uncle Selwyn Jones shared memories of their beloved nephew, along with words of strength and wisdom encouraging the
“We need every heart, soul, and mind because your voice means a lot — you can’t be quiet anymore.” Uncle Selwyn Jones community to participate. “You have to be willing to use your voice—don’t be quiet anymore,” Harrelson said. Jones added: “We need every heart, soul, and mind because your voice means a lot — you can’t be quiet anymore.” “We need to learn how to eat together —even if we don’t eat the same food,” said Reverend Nyle Fort. “Educate, agitate, and organize.” Sharee Myricks, Director of Diversity and Intercultural Life, extended her gratitude to President Mary K. Surridge and Director of Civic Engagement Rich Kohng for their ongoing support in her department’s efforts.
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George Floyd Jr.’s Aunt Angela Harrelson. (Photo by Los Angeles Times)
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Faculty Authors llsup Ahn Professor of Philosophy Theology and Migration In an age of global migration, Ahn asks how theologians and church leaders should respond to its various challenges and problems. David Bjorlin C’06 S’11 Music and Teaching Fellow Protest and Praise: 50 Hymn Texts Bjorlin, a pastor and Seminary professor, puts practical theology into poetic forms. Dennis R. Edwards Associate Professor of New Testament Might from the Margins: The Gospel’s Power to Turn the Tables on Injustice The power of the Gospel, Edwards writes, is often most visible among those who have been the least respected, including minorities, women, and refugees. Dr. Julia Davids Stephen J. Hendrickson Professor of Music
Our faculty has published books and articles on a wide variety of topics in the past year.
Vocal Technique: A Guide to Classical and Contemporary Styles for Conductors, Teachers, and Singers (Second Edition) This book’s latest edition offers an approach that allows soloists and choral singers to vary the elements of technique to sing virtually any style of music. Boaz Johnson Professor of Hebrew, Bible, and Theological Studies The Marys of the Bible: The Original #MeToo Movement Johnson writes about Christian organizations that have been engaging with issues of abuse against women in places like Africa and Asia. Gary Midkiff Lecturer, School of Professional Studies Busville: A Story About School Bus Drivers In his novel, Midkiff explores the challenges faced by unionized school bus
drivers as they work together to transport and support school children and themselves. Kelly Potteiger Professor of Athletic Training Qualitative Research in the Health Professions New discussions about qualitative research methods. Soong-Chan Rah Professor of Church Growth and Evangelism Unsettling Truths: The Ongoing, Dehumanizing Legacy of the Doctrine of Discovery Rah and his co- author explore how injustice has plagued American society for centuries, and offers solutions for how we can become a more just nation. Beth Seversen Director of Center of Christian Ministries Studies and Practical Theology Not Done Yet: Reaching and Keeping Unchurched Emerging Adults Seversen examines the generational barriers that prevent vibrant faith among young adults, and ways to break them down. Jonathan M. Wilson Seminary Lecturer God on Three Sides Wilson’s book takes aim at questions around ethnicity, politics, and religion. Daniel White Hodge Professor of Communications Baptized in Dirty Water: Reimagining the Gospel According to Tupac Amaru Shakur This book looks at the Gospel according to Tupac Shakur, widely considered a Hip Hop prophet.
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nurse who served in the U.S. and Germany. “The faculty and staff are experts in their areas, serve the students, the school, and the university; it is not just a job.” Dr. Hudson has published work on topics including childhood obesity, academic clinical partnerships for the underserved, and interprofessional education. At North Park, Dr. Hudson will guide faculty in teaching strategies geared for RN to BSN students.
“I was drawn to NPU’s mission and values...The faculty and staff are experts in their areas, serve the students, the school, and the university; it is not just a job.” Dr. Cynthia Hudson, Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences
Hudson to Head SNHS
A former military nurse, Dr. Hudson brings a wealth of research experience as the new Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences.
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ast fall, North Park welcomed Dr. Cynthia Hudson as the Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences. Previously, Dr. Hudson served as the founding director and chief academic officer for the University of Houston-Victoria nursing program and as the dean at Langston University School of Nursing and Health Professions. “I was drawn to NPU’s mission and values,” said Dr. Hudson, a former military
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“With more than 30 years of academic nursing, practice, and research experience, Dr. Hudson will lead faculty in equipping students with the skills and readiness to work in the healthcare industry,” said Provost Craig Johnson. Dr. Hudson is the editor-in-chief of Nursing: Research and Reviews and has served as a vice-president of the Association of Community Health Nurse Educators. Dr. Hudson received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Duquesne University, a Master of Arts in Management & Supervision from Central Michigan University, a Master of Science in Nursing at the University of Pittsburgh, a post-master’s certificate in Public Health Nursing from the University of Missouri-Columbia, and a Doctorate in Nursing Science from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. She completed post-doctoral studies at the University of Pennsylvania.
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Trevor Nicholas C’08 Eases Pandemic Fatigue with Music Video A choir director at a Chicago high school, Nicholas blended at-home student performances into a moving musical collaboration.
Brianna Santiago Wins Chemistry Scholarship
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revor Nicholas C’08, a Choral Director at Chicago’s Senn Arts High School, knew his students needed a lift after a series of tragedies at his high school was compounded by the Covid-19 pandemic. Along with other Senn artists and alumni, Nicholas’ choir collaborated to produce a music video for his original composition “Who Will Carry Me?” The visual art project features more than 30 Senn Arts students singing, dancing, and playing instruments from their homes. “The song is a creative response to the Covid-19 pandemic and the trauma of experiencing and watching anti-Black violence repeatedly displayed on the news while in isolation,” said Nicholas. “The song is also a call to action: As school districts across the country are cutting arts budgets to address the financial impact of Covid-19, the 4-minute video reaffirms the arts’ ability to connect, heal and strengthen communities.” Senn Arts student Mia Mendoza said the process was healing. “Being alone all the
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American Chemical Society grant will allow the senior Biochemistry major to enroll in a research project at Northwestern University.
“The song is a creative response to the Covid-19 pandemic and the trauma of experiencing and watching anti-Black violence repeatedly displayed on the news while in isolation.” Trevor Nicholas C ’08
time and stuck with your own thoughts is not something that’s easy to do. But for me personally, I felt that doing this project collectively truly portrayed the message of the piece that even then, and now, we aren’t alone.”
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rianna Santiago recently was named an American Chemical Society Scholar as part of the program that awards renewable scholarships to underrepresented minority students. Recipients of the scholarship are undergrads who plan to pursue careers in chemistry related fields; about 300 scholarships are awarded each year. “North Park University has given me an amazing community of chemists who love what they do and want to see you succeed,” said Santiago, who will enroll in a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) progam through Northwestern University. Santiago said she doubted she would be able to get either the scholarship or the REU opportunity, but “the chemistry staff believed that I could, and I did! My plans after graduation are to do research and possibly go to graduate school.”
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Winter Events Calendar
Mark your calendars for the following events, and join us when you can. Friends and alumni are always welcome!
JAN 20 | 12:30PM CST Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration
Featuring speaker Mikki Kendall, a writer, diversity consultant, and occasional feminist who talks about intersectionality, policing, gender, sexual assault, and other current events.
Mikki Kendall, author of Amazons, Abolitionists, and Activists and Hood Feminism.
FEB 20 Viking Preview Day
MAR 26 | 10:30AM CDT Office of Diversity and Intercultural Life Multicultural Awards This event will recognize outstanding students, staff, and faculty members in various areas of academics, athletics, campus involvement, community service, and those concerned about issues of diversity, advocacy, and justice.
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Do you know a student that might be interested in attending North Park? Viking Preview Day offers high school students and their families a firsthand taste of the North Park University experience by giving them the opportunity to connect with our community and learn about our vibrant student life. www.northpark. edu/previewdays
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We not only appreciated and benefitted from her dedication and expert professional support, but came to depend and rely on it. Karen consistently, faithfully and enthusiastically served during her time at North Park.
HONORING OUR RETIREES In September, the campus gathered in a remote celebration of 15 faculty and staff members who led careers of significance and service.
Rick Rice Security Officer, Security and Safety
Coming to North Park was the best thing that could’ve happened for North Park, and for Rick. God works in many ways.
Deborah has been a gift to us, and a gift beyond our campus…When she prays for you, you know you have been prayed for. Most of all she’s been a pastor, offering pastoral care over our staff, faculty and students.
Rebecca Ryan Interim Dean of the School of Music, Art, and Theatre and Associate Professor of Music Karen Dickelman Director of Music Events and Communications, School of Music, Art, and Theatre
David Kersten C’77 S’82 S’97 Vice President for Church Relations and Dean of the Seminary
Dan Gooris C’73 Former Director of Campus Safety and Auxiliary Services
Daisy Santiago-Altiery C’83 G’92 S’15 Director of Counseling and Support Services, Center for Student Engagement Daisy, you’re a woman of integrity who served both the university, and your profession, with high standards of excellence. Thank you… Daisy, you are a friend: no matter what was happening on campus, you always took the time to pause, and ask me about my life.
Elizabeth Fedec G’99 Assistant Vice President and Dean of Students 16
Rev. Deborah Penny S’06 Associate Director of CALL and Professor of Spiritual Formation, North Park Theological Seminary
Gordana Erzic Office Manager, Physical Plant
Linda Craft Professor of Spanish, Foreign Language
Gordana was a perfect fit for North Park and for the Physical Plant. It was apparent very quickly when she arrived that she was a people person. It wasn’t long after she arrived that she became “Gordie,” not only to our department and to those on campus.
Carl Wistrom C’77 Director of Physical Plant NORTH PARKER
Linda has been a compassionate and giving member of the North Park community; generous with her teaching, and with her service, and always gracious, with her students and with her colleagues. She embodies what North Park is all about.
Susan Rabe C’75 Interim Co-Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Professor of History Reyna Garmendia Custodian, Physical Plant
Carl Wistrom C’77 Director of Physical Plant Reyna was someone we could count on...She was very flexible, and always willing to help out. We will miss her and the students she cleaned for in the dorms will miss her also.
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Dan Gooris C’73 Director of Campus Safety and Auxiliary Services, Security and Safety
I want to thank Dan for his many years of service to his alma mater. He was always a trusted adviser and I felt safer on our campus knowing that Dan and his team were keeping careful watch.
Scott Stenmark C’91 Vice President for Finance and Administration/Chief Financial Officer Alina Carreno Associate Director of Student Accounts, Student Administrative Services Alina is blessed with an incredible amount of patience, and the ability to listen to students as they share with her. She has created relationships with students that have extended for years beyond their graduation.
Aaron Schoof Senior Director of Data and Administrative Services Jean Benevich Assistant Professor of Nursing, School of Nursing and Health Sciences Linda Duncan C’69 Professor of Nursing Jean was intensely loyal to the School of Nursing and Health Sciences. She was really committed to quality. She brought a sense of energy, passion, and commitment to nursing. We are so thankful that you were a part of our team, Jean.
Wilda is one of the most Godly women I know. Her faith frames all of her life. She accepts everyone and is a model of putting others first.
Rich Eckman General Maintenance/Field Manager, Physical Plant
Carl Balsam Former Vice President for Finance and Administration/Chief Financial Officer
Wilda Graham C’06 G’08 Business Office Associate/ Administrative Assistant, Business Office
Rich was a jack of all trades and wore many different trades’ hats. Rich was well-known on campus for having a sense of humor, and he and I shared many laughs through the years.
Carl Wistrom C’77 Director of Physical Plant
Susan Rabe C’75 Interim Co-Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Professor of History
As Dean, Charles was known for his open door, and for his kindness and dedication to his faculty. His faculty loved him for his breadth of spirit and his openness, his innate fairness, and his willingness to try to resolve problems. They also loved him for his sense of humor… What has always been most evident about Charles is how deeply he cares.
Maria Vastis Office Manager, Division of Sciences
Maria always kept an eye on details faculty often missed, frequently reporting to me that she had saved some chunk of money during a purchase…She has a wonderful eye for detail, and it really came out during graduation season.
Dr. Matthew Schau Interim Co-Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Professor of Biology WINTER 2021
Charles Peterson C’73 Professor of Communications/ Director of the Center for Scandinavian Studies, Communication Arts and Former Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences
Tony Quinn Associate Professor of Exercise and Sport, School of Nursing and Health Sciences Tony was a teacher, a mentor, a coach, and was inducted into the North Park Viking Hall of Fame in 2015. He never wanted to be in the spotlight, he preferred to work behind the scenes. He was not one to speak at length, but when he did, his audience locked in on the guidance he provided.
Andrew Lundgren G’01 Associate Professor of Athletic Training/Athletic Training Program Director 17
The Black Student Union hosted a Zoom chat with founding President Cornelius DuBose C’72 during Homecoming week
BSU CELEBRATES 50TH ANNIVERSARY
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BL ACK STUDENT UNION 50 YEARS
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ne of the highlights of this year’s Homecoming from Home was a celebration of the 50th anniversary of North Park’s Black Student Union, presided over by its first president, Cornelius DuBose C’72. “We wanted something we could have, that was ours. We could get together and say, ‘These are the things we need you to do for us,’” DuBose said in explaining why he and others formed the BSU in 1970. “The fact that the BSU still exists is a great benefit to the students here,” he said. The virtual event kicked off with a presentation by Director of Archives Andy Meyer C’06 who presented several pieces of BSU history, including letters, yearbook page entries, and stories about the BSU in the student newspaper. The exhibit, which has been on display in Brandel Library since February 2020, celebrates the pioneering work of North Park student leaders who organized and formed the BSU during the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s. The exhibit focuses on records of the late 1960s and 1970s. Following Meyer’s brief presentation, Interim Assistant Director of the Office of Diversity Marcus A. Payne II C’18 led a discussion, during which DuBose answered questions. DuBose recalled how in the late ’60s and early ’70s, there were few Black students on campus. But the ones who were there looked out for each other, helping type papers, for instance, or just supporting one another. “We felt there were people there who just didn’t think we were intellectually proficient enough to get a North Park education,” DuBose said, crediting his only Black professor with giving him the motivation he needed to ultimately succeed. His story resonated with Payne, who called out retired Professor Dr. Mary Trujillo, one of his only Black professors, for having a similar impact on his academic career. “One day she called me into her office and asked me ‘Marcus, do you believe God gave you talent? Then why are you wasting it?’” Marcus recalled, saying her question left him in shock and crying. “She said ‘You know you not living up to your potential is
(Top) Students and staff participated in the panel discussion with Cornelius DuBose C’72, the founding President of the Black Student Union. (Bottom) Description of the Black Student Association from the 1978 North Park Catalog.
having the audacity to spit in God’s face?’” Marcus said his attitude and work ethic changed after that exchange. “That interaction with a Black faculty member showed I did have intelligence, what I bring is important and makes sense,” Payne said. Sharee Myricks, Director of Diversity and Intercultural Life, urged Black alums to return to North Park to encourage and mentor Black students. “Our students ask for opportunities to see more Black alums come back and talk about how you got into your career, how you made that decision, where do you think they should be going,” Myricks said. “Just speaking to them about how difficult it is to be Black in a place that, yes, it is a Hispanic Serving Institution, but still feels like a predominantly white one. Being active in their lives would make all the difference.”
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“We wanted something we could have, that was ours. We could get together and say, ‘These are the things we need you to do for us.’” Cornelius DuBose C’72
DuBose, for his part, advised students to attain their college degree, despite the obstacles and the fact that “not everybody is going to like you.” “You need to get that college degree,” DuBose said. “Ultimately, the thing I say about North Park is that it’s the foundation of all the good things that happened in my adult life.”
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ACROSS CAMPUS
This year’s Homecoming from Home didn’t have live football. Instead, alumni enjoyed a remote replay of North Park’s November 9, 2019 38-14 win over Elmhurst College.
Homecoming from Home
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his year, everything was a little different, including Homecoming. North Park friends and alumni still celebrated from home, though, with festivities including a Reunion & Awards Brunch, where North Park alumni healthcare workers were honored. The program recognized those working on the frontlines of the global pandemic and the faculty and staff who have prepared them to do so. Saturday was filled with events, including the Virtual River Run 5K finish line celebration (participants were encouraged to
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run on their own and record their efforts on an app); the Office of Diversity and Intercultural Life’s Tailgate; and a replay of the Vikings vs. Elmhurst football game from November 9, 2019. The weekend was capped off with a Virtual Class Reunion for several milestone graduation classes. Other events included a Friday night replay of the Men’s Soccer team vs. rival Gustavus Adolphus College in an epic November 17, 2019 match that went into two overtimes and a shootout.
NORTH PARKER
HOMECOMING FROM HOME
Proud North Park Alums Everly (Ban) Torres C’13 and Amal Torres ‘C14 decked out their kids in Viking apparel.
Members of the class of 1995 gathered for a Zoom reunion.
Tre Kronor looked festive during Homecoming week.
President Surridge participated in the Virtual River Run 5K by running through North Park’s campus.
Recreation and Wellness Director Ericka (Hopper) Adams G’10 surrounded by loved ones as she participates in the Virtual River Run 5K.
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Alum Johanna (Vetter) Biasotti C’14 shows her Viking spirit by participating in the Virtual River Run 5K.
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The New Normal
Amidst a global pandemic, North Park successfully reimagined life on campus. Here’s how. 22
NORTH PARKER
THE NEW NORMAL
N
orth Park’s campus looked a bit different at the start of the Fall 2020 Semester: Large white tents occupied open green space; new signage indicated where people should walk; and masks were everywhere. “The past few months have been filled with extraordinary challenges for all of us,” President Surridge said in her welcome remarks to new and returning students. “But I am so proud of the perseverance, resilience, character and strength that our community has shown.” The fact that campus was able to reopen at all was a credit to the hard work of a dedicated task force of faculty and staff who worked all summer on reopening plans. Among those plans: rearranging classroom spaces to allow for proper social distancing, stepped-up sanitizing protocols,
reduced occupancy in residence halls, surveillance testing, and dedicated space to house quarantined students. Students, faculty, and staff were required to use a new symptom-checking app, called Campus Clear, before coming to campus each day. They were also asked to sign the Viking Shield, a statement of personal commitment to maintaining established safety protocols. “We’re all in this together, and we share the responsibility to keep our campus community as safe as possible,” President Surridge said. Students seemed to adapt well to the “New Normal,” embracing outdoor Chapel services, music rehearsals, and classes. Students enjoyed meals and other socially distant gatherings under the new tents set up strategically across campus.
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“We’re all in this together, and we share the responsibility to keep our campus community as safe as possible.” President Surridge
Professors, too, got creative, tailoring class offerings to fit the times. For instance, when the pandemic first hit, Dr. Drew Rholl, Associate Professor of Biology, and Peter Olfelt, Lecturer in History, teamed up to teach their students about pandemics in a holistic and engaging way.
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THE NEW NORMAL
“While safety measures mean we can only sing in person in small groups for short periods of times behind the barriers of our masks and physically distanced, we have reached out to each other through our vulnerability.” Dr. Julia Davids Stephen J. Hendrickson Professor of Music
Advanced Topics in Biology: Pandemics, is taught by Dr. Rholl, while Professor Olfelt teaches Pandemics in History. By sharing resources and information, students in each class can see the true scope of a pandemic as it relates to history and science. Using data Dr. Rholl and his class generate, Olfelt can better explain to his students the factors in disease transmission and mitigation. Meanwhile, Olfelt’s students provide Dr. Rholl’s Biology class with historical context and the societal implications of a pandemic. “Dr. Rholl and I came up with the idea of connecting our two courses during the summer,“ Olfelt said. “He reached out to me, and together we worked out how our students could collaborate on a shared project.” Dr. Rholl said the level of interest and engagement by students is higher than he anticipated. “It’s really inspiring. Students are really interacting with the content and each other on a deeper level, and that is really rewarding for everyone involved.” And with in-person concerts, art shows,
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and theatre off the table, North Parkers had to get creative with performances. “We made good use of the tent outside Hanson that has become part of the campus landscape this fall,” said Dr. Joe Lill, Professor of Music, who held rehearsals in three sections—woodwinds, brass, and percussion—outside. “We were also grateful for the mild autumn weather we experienced!” Lill’s goal was to record each section separately, and then put them together in a recording in time for North Park’s annual Festival of Lessons and Carols, another tradition that looked different this year. People tuned in from across the country on Facebook and YouTube to watch the modified Lessons and Carols in early December. Choral students took the opportunity to explore themes of isolation, said Dr. Julia Davids, Stephen J. Hendrickson Professor of Music. “While safety measures mean we can only sing in person in small groups for short periods of times behind the barriers of our masks and physically distanced, we have reached out to each other through our
NORTH PARKER
THE NEW NORMAL
vulnerability,” Dr. Davids said. “Many of the students have worked collaboratively to communicate their own thoughts about isolation through original compositions and spoken word.” Student artists used themes of being at home in their work as well. Minnie Fawcett-Tang, for instance, was inspired by one of Covid-19’s biggest byproducts: handwashing. “The new normal is that we are now spending longer than ever before washing our hands, so in response I created Sink Paintings,” said Fawcett-Tang. “After I painted a sink in my parent’s house (in London), I collected photos by posting about it on my Instagram.” She has painted 10 of the 23 photos she has received so far. “Asking for these snaps is both an impersonal thing, but also something that becomes intimate as I spend the time to really look at the spaces. Every sink has the
same function, but at the same time they are all slightly different.” Perhaps no area of college life has felt more upended than athletics, but even there, adaptations have been made. Helwig Recreation Center, where most student athletes train and work out together, was totally reimagined, with workout equipment spaced apart from one another and temperature checks and masks required before entering. The athletic department got creative by opening an outdoor weight room. By mid-October, the football team was able to start practicing outdoors, wearing masks and remaining socially distant when possible. Although there is no start date set for fall sports like football, the athletes and their coaches remain hopeful that some games can be played. Elsewhere on campus, Catalyst hosted a number of virtual events, including book discussions and a discussion about Black
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Lives Matter with an aunt and uncle of George Floyd Jr. The semester was a particular challenge to spiritual health, with students, faculty, and staff unable to convene as a group for regular Chapel and CollegeLife events. Campus Co-Pastors Laura Kraybill and Terence Gadsden spent the semester in a conversation on Ubuntu: Acts 2 Reconcile, in which they examined our relationships with one another. Ubuntu is an African word meaning “humanity to others.” In one of the last Chapel services of the semester, around Election Day, they discussed Ubuntu in the context of what reconciliation looks like during a time of national division. In order to heal division, “We have to listen,” Gadsden said during the discussion. “But we also have to move in love and speak the truth in love. And the effort has to be on both sides.”
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GIVING
The President’s Club
Donors who contribute $1,000 or more a year.
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or 2020’s Annual Giving Day, alums Linnea (Wallgren) C’01 and Cam Johnson C’01 made a spontaneous decision to leverage their annual gift by offering a $1,000 matching challenge to their classmates. As a result, their class had the highest number of donors that day. “We put off giving to North Park for awhile, with a thought that others with far more resources would step up to extend and strengthen its mission,” Cam said. “When we learned that only a small number of alumni in our age group were giving, we realized how important it is to get in the game to invest in North Park’s future, and encourage others to do the same. We hope people know that their gifts of any size make a difference.” Cam and Linnea live in Winnetka, Illinois and are parents to Gwen, Sonja, and Naomi. Cam is Director of Advancement for the College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs at University of Illinois at Chicago, and Linnea works in real estate. The couple has deep Covenant ties. They met while studying together at SVF in Sweden, after learning their grandparents lived across the street from each other in the North Park neighborhood. Cam said the couple continue to give to North Park because of the caring faculty
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LINNEA (WALLGREN) C’01 AND CAM JOHNSON C’01
“When we learned that only a small number of alumni in our age group were giving, we realized how important it is to get in the game to invest in North Park’s future, and encourage others to do the same. ” Cam Johnson C’01
NORTH PARKER
and staff, and the unique “opportunities and emphasis on justice and service that make North Park stand out.” “Honestly, it’s just so hard to pinpoint it exactly,” Cam said. “It just feels like home— the people, the memories, the education, spiritual growth, the connection to our own history and incredible lifelong friendships.” As for their daughters, Cam said he imagines they will explore all their options when it’s time to choose a college, but hopes they each strongly consider North Park. “We would love it if at least one of them goes there,” said Cam. “It seems pretty likely at this point!”
GIVING
Compass Society Graduates of the Last Decade (GOLD) who contribute $300 or more a year.
EVELIN L ABASTIDA C’17
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velin Labastida C’17 chose North Park for its well-regarded music and nursing programs. Evelin majored in Health Science with a concentration in health and wellness at North Park. Now an evening supervisor at Maryville Center for Children, she is working as a care provider with teenage youth in a residential home as she pursues her nursing certification. “I decided to start giving at the Compass Society level because as a person with a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status, I knew that finances can become a burden when you are a student,” said Labas-
tida, who moved with her family to Chicago from Mexico when she was 3. “I do not want students to have to think so much about their next payment rather than worrying about their next exam.” At North Park, she was on the rowing team, Latin American Student Organization and worked in the dining hall. She has faithfully served as a member of the GOLD Leadership Committee since 2017. As part of this participation, she has made calls and written postcards to prospective students who are considering North Park for their college career. Evelin embraces her role as an alumni ambassador for North Park and is engaged on social media and in her network to encourage her fellow alumni to stay in touch with North Park, whether it’s by creating a trivia team during Homecoming from Home, spreading the word about virtual alumni events and webinars, or filming a video testimonial on Giving Day to remind others about the important impact of supporting the North Park Fund. She said she decided to give back to North Park because she likes to feel she is contributing to something bigger than herself. “DACA has allowed me to work legally in the U.S., and through that I am blessed to have the opportunity to give. I encourage GOLD alumni to give at this level because it only takes a little at a time in order to be part of something bigger. We may not realize how giving creates an impact, but I am personally still grateful that others gave to me when I needed it the most.” Evelin gives a $25 monthly recurring gift to reach her yearly Compass Society goal. “It’s always a blessing to give back to a place that once gave to us,” Labastida said. “Everyone faces barriers in life, and if we
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just take a little moment to think back to our college days and all the memories we were able to create, maybe we wouldn’t have been able to make them without the financial assistance from North Park. A little goes a long way, and how beautiful is it to plant seeds through financial assistance, only to see the harvest in a few years through future graduates. We reap what we sow.”
“DACA has allowed me to work legally in the U.S., and through that I am blessed to have the opportunity to give. I encourage GOLD alumni to give at this level because it only takes a little at a time in order to be part of something bigger. We may not realize how giving creates an impact, but I am personally still grateful that others gave to me when I needed it the most.”
Evelin Labastida C’17
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GIVING
place, then give to North Park. North Park transforms lives and improves the world. For me and Maria, it is the very best place for us to give.” The Otfinoskis love North Park for its commitment to educating young people from all types of backgrounds, who “come together in a small school environment in a great city to learn from dedicated faculty and from one another, and to grow in their faith and understanding of how they can serve their communities.” “I have always appreciated the phrase about standing on the shoulder of giants,” Otfinoski said. “There are so many saints that have come before us that have loved North Park and have provided stewardship for NPU over the years. We now have the opportunity to step forward and provide leadership and stewardship to move forward the important mission of North Park, ensuring it will continue to thrive, to educate and care for our young people for many years to come.”
DAVE OTFINOSKI C’84 AND MARIA (VARALLI) OTFINOSKI ‘84
The Old Main Society Donors who contribute $5,000 or more a year
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D
ave Otfinoski C’84 and Maria (Varalli) Otfinoski C’84 have been giving to North Park since they graduated, in large part because of the gratitude they feel toward their alma mater. “North Park has given me so much, and it is an honor for me to have the opportunity to give back,” said Dave Otfinoski, who is Chairman of North Park’s Board of Trustees. Not only did North Park prepare him for the workforce and help him grow in his faith, Otfinoski said, but it was also where he met his “amazing, smart, and beautiful wife,” Maria, who is a high school ESL teacher. The couple are parents to Bejamin Otfinoski C’14 (Sommar (Johnson) C’14) and Annie Otfinoski. “I know of no better place in which to give,” said Otfinoski, who is President of Catamount Medical Education LLC. “If you want to help to make the world a better
NORTH PARKER
“There are so many saints that have come before us that have loved North Park and have provided stewardship for NPU over the years. We now have the opportunity to step forward and provide leadership and stewardship to move forward the important mission of North Park, ensuring it will continue to thrive, to educate and care for our young people for many years to come.” Dave Otfinoski C’84
GIVING
Show Your Viking Pride with a Custom Illinois License Plate
NPU
NORTH PARK UNIVERSITY Now you can help raise awareness of North Park, and raise money for scholarships, by ordering a specialty North Park University license plate! We’re on a mission to get 2,000 students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and friends in Illinois to sign up for a plate. Visit www. northpark.edu/license-plates to learn more about this initiative, and when you are ready, call the Secretary of State to sign up and pay via credit card: 217-782-7758. If you prefer, you can print out a form from our website and mail it to:
Secretary of State Special Plates Initial Deposit 501 S. Second St., Rm. 520 Springfield, IL 62756-5100
When you do, your $10 will go straight into a North Park University scholarship account. Why do we need 2,000 of you? Because if we don’t hit that number, the state won’t even make the plates. (We have to prove that enough North Parkers love our school to make it worth the state’s time and effort.) Once we do, you’ll be able to switch to the North Park plate for as little as $69, with $25 of that going straight into our scholarship fund. Help us spread the name North Park University far and wide. Let’s get rolling! And thanks for your support.
North Park University students show off their Viking spirit during Threshold 2020
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Alumni News and Notes 1950s
Since the sudden loss of her dear husband Burdette “Bud” Palmberg C’54 S’62 in May, 2019 during volunteer ministry in Bali, Donna Jean (Johnson) Palmberg C’56 has returned to Covenant Living at the Shores, Mercer Island, Wash. and continues to thrive via the Lord, family and friends. Since their North Park graduation in 1956, eight former Sohlberg residents, though scattered, have continued their Round Robin letters and remained close friends. Pictured at their 2011 55th Homecoming reunion are Pat (Steinhauer) Feltskog C’56, Marilyn (Ahlem) Dixon C’56, Mary Jo (Bengtson) Kjell C’56 and the late Marilyn (Peterson) Nelson C’56. Ethel (Erickson) Radmer C’55 published her ninth book, From The Heart: Contemplations on our Heart Expressions (c) 2020, available on Amazon in e-book and in paperback.
1960s
Michael Kazanjian C’66 will soon revise the second edition of his book, Unified Philosophy: Interdisciplinary Metaphysics, Ethics, and Liberal Arts, toward its third edition. The third edition will hopefully come out in 2021.
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Proud parents Bob Elde C’69 of Johnson City, Tex. and Carol (Palmquist) Elde C’70 of Plymouth, Minn. celebrated son Nels Elde being selected as a recipient of a 2020 MacArthur Fellowship—one of the nation’s most prestigious awards.
1970s
After being a partner in a defense firm for nine years, Jeffery Martin C’78 is joined by his daughter, Shauna Martin, in his law practice now known as Martin Law, LLC. They concentrate in representing individuals and families who are hurt by the negligence of others, e.g., medical malpractice, nursing home neglect, motor vehicle collisions, premises liability. To protect against COVID-19, the firm purchased plexiglass desk protectors for all the students in Shauna’s daughter’s 1st grade class.
Elizabeth Ritt C’78, EdD, MSN, RN, NEABC, CNE, Professor of Nursing in the Department of Nursing and Health at Benedictine University in Lisle, Ill., has been elected as Chair of the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) Board of Commissioners. Dr. Ritt assumed the role of Chair on January 1, 2021.
NORTH PARKER
1990s
Marc Horner C’94 recently launched a humorous advertising campaign for his firm, Fairhaven Wealth Management. The campaign, which depicts the fictional Bear Brothers Financial Advisors as his firm’s “arch nemesis,” was born out of creative necessity. “As a small firm, I am fond of saying around the office, ‘We will never out-big-firm the big firms,’” Horner said. “If we are going to be noticed in our marketing, we have to be committed to being different. If not, we shouldn’t even bother.” The process began with Horner writing the scripts and creating the characters. The spots, of course, are meant to show the difference between large, impersonal firms and Horner’s own, which offers a personal touch. The commercials have received plenty of positive feedback, which prompted Horner and his team to create the website bearbrothersfinancialadvisors.com, where you can view each commercial.
2000s
On June 22, 2019, April (Pettis) Osuji C’05 and Chidi Osuji wed in Chicago, Ill.
ALUMNI NEWS AND NOTES
with over 300 guests. April is a child care director in Itasca and her husband is a mechanical engineer in Lincolnshire, Ill. They currently reside in Glendale Heights, Ill.
Rebecca (Erickson) DeCicco S’06 was adopted when she was six weeks-old. While she had a wonderful family, she never quite felt “complete.” She recently published her memoir on Amazon: Looking for You, Finding Me. This story of God’s grace may be helpful to anyone who is adopted or who has adopted a child.
Siblings featuring Sarah Giovannetti C‘11 on drums. Schupbach has interviewed North Park alumni for the project including Tricia (Peterson) Clarke C‘04, Hannah Schupbach C‘13, and Sterling Haukom Anderson C‘06. This current season wraps this winter and will return in 2021 with a second season. Schupbach is a writer, theatre-maker, and food enthusiast and currently pursuing his MFA in Creative Writing at Roosevelt University.
Miles John Meyer was born at 10lbs and 14oz on October 5, 2020 to Kristen Engebretson C’08 and Jim Meyer C’07 and joins big brother Owen. Other alumni family include Uncle Andy Meyer C’06 and Aunt Christy Bouris S’12, Bestafar Donn N. Engebretson A’69 C’73 S’78 and Mormor Sally Engebretson. Trevor Nicholas C’08 and Renee (Lick) Nicholas C’12 are overjoyed to announce the birth of their son, Everett Maurice Nicholas, on September 11, 2020.
Sorin A. Leahu C’10 has joined the Detroitbased land use, business, and denominational trust law firm Dalton + Tomich as a senior associate attorney. Leahu’s practice is concentrated on commercial litigation and civil rights, especially religious liberty issues. In addition to zoning and land use, he has litigated cases before federal courts in the areas of free speech, the establishment clause, the free exercise clause, and various election law matters.
On July 23rd, 2020, Everly (Ban) Torres C’13 and Amal Torres C’14 welcomed Luka Javier Torres at 1:33pm. He weighed in at 6lbs 11oz. and 18 1/4 inches long. Although we were nervous to give birth during a pandemic and was the worst month of it, we had faith in God and knew he would protect us as a family. We missed not being able to have our other son Joaquin at the hospital to meet his little brother but as soon as he met him he fell in love! We are so grateful to our families and to our friends who supported us throughout this bizarre time.
2010s Joe Schupbach C‘06 has recently launched Mirepoix Podcast. The project is an interview-based journey through food, family, and culture via the lens of food practice and tradition. Schupbach started publishing episodes in August and the podcast has already been streamed over one thousand times in nine different countries. Mirepoix is available on seven different platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. The theme song of the project comes from the Chicago band
Molly (Davies) Bubb C’ 10 married Aaron Bubb on November 16, 2019. They have two rescue dogs, Kedzie and Ellie.
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After spending a year and a half in Chicago after graduating from North Park, Tommy Johnson C’18 and Sophie (Gaska) Johnson C’18 moved to Ames, Iowa. Tommy has joined the Iowa State University Chemistry department pursuing a PhD in Materials Chemistry. Sophie has started a new position as the Development Officer for the Ames Public Library Friends Foundation and will be debuting her real estate business later this fall.
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In Memoriam
Elizabeth “Betty” Carlson A’40 C’42, North Park alumna and champion of women’s ministry with a decades-long legacy of service to the Evangelical Covenant Church, died on May 3 in South Bend, Ind. She was 96. The only child of David and Emily (Freiberg) Carlson, Betty was born on August
12, 1923, in Chicago, and was baptized and confirmed at Edgewater Covenant Church. She graduated from North Park Academy in 1940 and North Park Junior College in 1942, then went on to serve as a secretary at the Evangelical Covenant Church’s denominational headquarters. During those years she met a young North Park seminarian, John H. Carlson S’45, and they were married on January 17, 1948. Together they served churches in Lowell, Mass.; Staten Island, N.Y.; Stromsburg, Nebr.; Essex, Iowa; and South Bend, Ind. Education was of life-long importance to Betty. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Northwest Missouri State University and a master’s degree in library science from Indiana University. She was a school librarian for the South Bend Community School Corporation for 15 years. Well respected as an educator, Betty received Edison Middle School’s Teacher of the Year award in 1984. To honor their interest in education, an endowed scholarship fund was established in John and Betty’s name at North Park University. Betty was a woman of faith, wisdom, and compassion who had an impact on many. Active within Covenant Women, Betty served
for several years on the CW board when it was a national organization. In 1979, as board president, she helped guide its transition to a department within the Covenant Church and became the first chair of the denominational Board of Women’s Work. In 1983 Betty was elected as the first woman to serve on the Executive Board of the Evangelical Covenant Church denomination. In 2019, at age 95, Betty became the only person to have attended all 16 Covenant Women Triennial conferences. A member of Covenant Community Church in South Bend, Betty was a teacher, choir member, and advocate for women’s ministries and served on a variety of committees. Betty was preceded in death by her parents and husband John. She is survived by children Beverly (Carlson) Gillespie C’72 and husband Monte; Timothy Carlson C‘75 and wife Ann (Swanson) Carlson C‘75; Sharon Carlson C‘79; and Sonia (Carlson) Watson C‘82 and husband; grandchildren Sarah (Carlson) Yamaguchi C’02 and husband Mark; Daniel Carlson C‘04 and wife Bekah; Emily Watson, and Amy Watson; and great-grandchildren Elin, Celia, Ida, and Andrew Yamaguchi and Jesse and
Stanley F. Helwig C’50
Stanley F. Helwig C’50, who served North Park University for 29 years on the North Park Board of Trustees, including two terms as Chair, died on Monday, October 12, 2020 at Covenant Living of Batavia, in Batavia, Ill. Stan was named Distinguished Alumnus in 2000, named North Park Emeritus Trustee in 2007, and awarded the Nyvall Medallion for Lifetime Service to our University in 2016. Stan Helwig was a North Parker in every aspect of his remarkable life. He was a champion for our school and his impact on our university is historic and indelible. Stan came to North Park as an 18-year-old freshman in 1948, excelled in his junior college career, and later enrolled and graduated
from Augustana College in 1952—as many North Parkers did during that time in our history. But Stan stayed true to North Park and returned to serve and lead—chairing the North Park Board of Trustees during some of the most significant times of campus master planning in our institution’s history; helped lead the campaign that gave us Brandel Library, and always had North Park’s long term sustainable future as his highest priority as a university leader. Stan was a lifelong Covenanter. Having been a member of six different Covenant churches throughout his life, he demonstrated boundless service, visionary leadership, and enduring support for the church and
Elizabeth “Betty” Carlson A’40 C’42
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NORTH PARKER
IN MEMORIAM
the university he loved. Stan’s commitment to our Christian mission in higher education helped raise our University into the dynamic and relevant campus we have today—and it helped set the stage for our ambitious and achievable opportunities, our calling, that we envision on the near horizon. Stan’s early Board service came at a time when the university was considering whether to remain in its historic urban location in the City of Chicago or move to a suburban location. Stan served on the committee with Dr. Tim Johnson that was charged with making that determination. The responsibility of the committee was great. The question required the meticulous evaluation and thorough consideration of all options. After a year of research, deliberation and prayer, the committee recommended to our denomination that we remain in the city, serving the mission and vision set forth by our founders. Support was unanimous. And we remain grateful for those visionary and invested leaders who made it possible for us to be here today—with the opportunity and responsibility to invite students into a Christian environment of higher education in this world-class city. Stan Helwig offered wisdom and prudent financial planning—and he backed it up with his own personal resources and investment. He served on the Campaign Committee for the Formation & Transformation campaign, and he was instrumental as co-chair for the campaign that helped to build Brandel Library, opened in 2001. He began a family legacy of attendance at North Park that has spanned three generations. Stan is survived by his wife Evie and preceded in death by his first wife Eleanor (Goethe) Helwig C’51. Stan’s four children, and two of his grandchildren, all graduated from North Park—Cynthia Helwig C’74; Ted Helwig C’77 (Dawn (Enquist) C’76); Jon Helwig C’77; Dave Helwig C’78 (Nancy (Sandberg) C’78); Scott Helwig C’03; Mary Helwig C’06. Additionally, two stepdaughters are North Park graduates, Debra (Holmstrom) Johnson C’77 and Julie (Holmstrom) Munson C’80.
Stan’s son Dave, and daughter-in-law Dawn, followed him in trustee service to North Park—Dave as former Board Chair and both as current board members. Dave is also past co-chair of Campaign North Park—the historic fundraising campaign that resulted in the transformational Nancy and G. Timothy Johnson Center for Science and Community Life. Stan’s successful career in management with Procter & Gamble demanded his professional time and attention, requiring several family moves. A constant throughout those many changes, was Stan’s commitment to North Park and his willingness to lead. His personal investment in leadership and service leaves a stirring example and inspiration for us all. Stan’s ability to provide strategic vision and thoughtful wisdom helped to ensure the faithful mission and successful future of our school. With deepest respect and gratitude for the Helwig family, peace be to the memory of Stan Helwig, and grace to the Helwig family.
Wanda Hollensteiner A’50
Wanda Mary (Peterson) Hollensteiner A’50 passed peacefully at home in Rollins, Mont. surrounded by her loving family and devoted dog, Mox IV, on May 31, 2020. Though very physically limited by Parkinson’s Disease, she lived an extraordinary and
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She was an organizer, contributor, and promoter of the James & Wanda Hollensteiner Foundation, which supports approximately 35 organizations annually in Northwest Montana as well as a number of other charities across the country.
adventurous life until the very end, arriving in Rollins from Chicago via her first RV trip just two days earlier. Wanda was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease 17 years ago and despite burdensome physical challenges, she was an inspiration to all as she continued to laugh, never complained, and lived for the next fun adventure. Wanda was born to Alf Victor and Mary Wanda Peterson in Chicago on June 9, 1932 during the Great Depression. Her list of many accomplishments began at two years of age when she was voted the “World’s Most Beautiful Baby” at the World’s Fair in Chicago in 1934. She was baptized at the Fourth Congregational Church in Chicago and her faith always remained important to her. Wanda attended Beloit College in Beloit, Wis. and double majored in psychology and art. In 2009, the Wanda Peterson Hollensteiner Art Gallery was founded at her alma mater to renovate the museum and to fund ongoing restoration of significant works of art. Wanda and her college girlfriends founded the Beloit Bridge Club (aka BBC), and while they never played bridge, they met regularly and shared a lifelong friendship. In her early twenties, the adventurous Wanda went to Germany for two and a half years to work for the U.S. Army Special Services. Based primarily out of Amberg, she was the highest-ranking female officer at the Service Club where her job was to provide entertainment and cultural tours for off-duty soldiers. After Europe, she returned to Chicago and met Jim Hollensteiner A’49 at a reunion party for North Park Academy, where they
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IN MEMORIAM
both attended high school. They became engaged shortly thereafter and married six months later on December 6, 1958 at the Fourth Congregational Church. Wanda became a mother to five children even as she continued with her own musical interests, teaching a myriad of students over thirty-five years. She was part of the leadership of the Northwest Music Teachers’ Association and the Chicago Lyric Opera. She also played piano on a regular basis for patients in the Elgin State Mental Institution. In addition, she founded and led the Honey Lake 4-H Club in Barrington, Ill. During her lifetime, Wanda visited over 60 countries. She once took three of her children—ages one, three, and five—and her disabled mother on a four-month tour of Western Europe. As a “People-to-People” Ambassador for piano teachers, she traveled to Russia and Eastern Europe. She also had many adventures with her family to Africa, South America, and Europe. She was an organizer, contributor, and promoter of the James & Wanda Hollensteiner Foundation, which supports approximately 35 organizations annually in Northwest Montana as well as a number of other charities across the country. Wanda enjoyed spending her summers with family at their home in Rollins where she loved tending to her garden, boating, and waterskiing on Flathead Lake. Glacier Park was a favorite place of hers to hike and look at wildflowers. Wanda is survived by Jim, her husband of 61 years; her five children Lisa, Jamie (Diane), Jena (Pend Armistead), John, and Andrew; her grandchildren Logan, Connor, Thomas, Andrew, Matthew, Walt, Will, and Anna; and step-grandchildren Scott and Sarah Armistead. The family is very grateful to her caregivers who cared for her so lovingly the last few years of her life.
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humility. He was also a man with a calm presence and determination. He also served the church beyond Salem, as a Member of the Covenant Youth of America and later as a member of North Park College’s Board of Directors, as well as the Executive Board of the Evangelical Covenant Church. As one who enjoyed the beautiful outdoors of Oregon, there were numerous family backpacking rips in the wilderness areas of Oregon and Washington. A love for the mountains and its streams led them to purchase a cabin on the Little North Fork of the North Santiam River, where for decades the family and countless friends enjoyed swimming and floating in the cool waters of the river.
Dr. Stanley L. Holme C’54
Dr. Stanley L. Holme C’54 was born in Stambaugh, Mich. on February 17, 1934. He was raised in a Christian home by his father Sigvald Holme and his mother Laura (Larson) Holme. Stan loved his childhood growing up in the beautiful Upper Peninsula of Michigan where he learned to love the out of doors. He was a true “Youper” and proud of it. He graduated from Stambaugh High School in 1952, finished his first two years of college at North Park College, and graduated from the University of Minnesota. He then went to the University of Michigan Medical School where he graduated in 1960. He completed his medical internship at Duluth, Minn. and San Antonio, Tex. before serving in the United States Air Force as a flight Surgeon at Grand Forks, N. Dak. He married Ruth Helgren from Iron Mountain, Mich. in 1958. In 1963 he and his family moved to Salem, Oreg. with two main purposes, to start his medical practice and help start Trinity Covenant Church, where he and Ruth have been charter members since 1964. A man of great character, he loved Jesus and served his Lord and his church with great passion, persistence and
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A man of great character, he loved Jesus and served his Lord and his church with great passion, persistence and humility. He was also a man with a calm presence and determination.
In the later years of his life he experienced chronic health challenges, always facing them head on. Rarely complaining, he always demonstrated perseverance and a positive approach to life’s problems. He made a point of helping others, demonstrating his genuine empathy and love for them. Stan is survived by his wife of 62 years, Ruth and their three children, Dianne Holme C’93, Mark Holme C’85 (Mary Skrzynski) and Sarah (Mike) Morelli. They have six grandchildren, Kurt, Eric, and Peter Wakeling and Tobias, Violet, and Flannery Holme.
ACROSS IN MEMORIAM CAMPUS
Former Gov. James Robert Thompson Jr. A’53 Former Gov. James Robert Thompson Jr. A’53, known fondly as “Big Jim” (he was six feet, six inches tall), served as governor of Illinois for 14 years, from 1977–1991. During his time in office he built more highways than any other governor, expanded McCormick Place, built a $173 million government office building in the Loop that was later named for him—and kept the White Sox from leaving Chicago for St. Petersburg, Fla. The Chicago Sun-Times called Thompson “the most popular governor of the past half-century.” Gov. J. B. Pritzker said in a statement that Thompson “dedicated himself to building positive change for Illinois and he set an example for public service of which Illinoisans should be proud. He will be remembered and revered as one of the titans in the history of state government.” In the North Park Academy Yearbook 67 years ago, Thompson predicted that he would become president of the United States. He later remarked, “I didn’t achieve that – but I got as close as I could.” As a young prosecutor in the 1960s, Thompson prosecuted obscenity cases, including against the notorious comedian of the day, Lenny Bruce. He taught at Northwestern University Law School for five years, from 1964 to 1969 when he was chosen to head the criminal division of the U.S. Attorney’s office. A year later President Richard Nixon appointed him U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois.
As governor, Thompson narrowly won re-election in 1982 against Adlai Stevenson III, who unsuccessfully contested the result. He served as national co-chair for George H.W. Bush’s successful 1988 presidential race and was rumored to be in line for a Cabinet post but did not take one. President Bush did appoint him chairman of the President’s Intelligence Oversight Board. In 1989, Thompson announced that he would not seek a fifth term as governor. Instead he became chairman of Chicago’s oldest law firm, Winston & Strawn. He remained in that post until 2006, more than tripling the powerful firm’s revenues from $145 million to $570 million. He also served on numerous boards and commissions, including The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States, also known as the 9/11 Commission. In 2013, when Thompson received the North Park Academy Distinguished Alumni Award, he recalled his time at Foster and Kedzie, saying: “What I remember most from my Academy years—small classes, good friends, common goals and exceptional teachers. We also were privileged to share a campus with the Seminary. I look back on that time as the Golden Years.” He is survived by his wife, Jayne Carr Thompson, and their daughter, Samantha.
Dr. Warren R. Wade Dr. Warren R. Wade passed peacefully on October 30, 2020 in Park Ridge, Ill. at the age of 77. Warren served as Professor and
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Chair of the Political Science Department from 1980-2008 when he retired as Professor Emeritus. Warren was a proud resident of Wisconsin where he taught at the University of Wisconsin-Stout and Ripon College before moving to Illinois and joining the North Park Faculty. He served as a member of many faculty groups during his 28 years including the Faculty Personnel, Student Academic Standing, and the Professional Development committees. As North Park grew in enrollment and became a university, he advocated for the Faculty Senate structure and championed its adoption as the governance body for faculty at NPU. Courses he taught included Introduction to Political Science, which was taken as part of the general education curriculum program by many students who broadened their thinking in the liberal arts by understanding the role of politics in decision-making, systems of government, international relationships, political behavior, and public policy. His students regularly remained in contact to share their experiences and insights so that his courses remained relevant and timely. In 2008, he served as the SVF advisor, and, with his wife Mitzi, accompanied and taught students from North Park and from Sweden. He was a member of the Park Ridge Presbyterian Church where he served for three terms as Clerk of the Session. After his son’s tragic death, Warren and Mitzi became resources and support for parents who were grieving. He shared his talents and expertise with local high schools as they prepared and competed in the regional, state, and national Constitution Team competitions sponsored by the Center for Civic Education. Teams he worked with achieved local and national recognition. “He is survived by his wife, Martha “Mitzi”, to whom he was married to for over 50 years; his daughter Dana Wade Kuzwayo, who earned her teacher certification from North Park in 2001; and his grandchildren Zola (10), and twins, Langelisha (6), and Ayize (6). He was preceded in death by his son, John “Scott” Wade, who died in 1996.”
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FROM THE ARCHIVES
A look back at the events that shaped us
North Park College Library Staff in 1966: Dorothy Vann, Alice Sherwood, Rose La Porta, Kay Olsen, Esther Lindgren, Betty Ake, Mildred Nelson.
T
he Illinois State Historical Records Administration Board recently awarded the F.M. Johnson Archives and Special Collections a grant to improve access to the Dorothy Vann Oral History Collection. Dorothy Vann worked in the North Park library for many years and was keenly interested in the history of the school and neighborhood. In the 1970s and 1980s, Vann interviewed members of the North Park community; these recordings were donated to the F.M. Johnson Archives and Special Collections and provide fascinating insights about Swedish immigration with a focus on immigrant educational
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and religious communities. The Archives has transcripts of these interviews but was unable to provide access to the records because of questions about the physical condition of the cassettes and lack of specialized equipment. This grant will remove those barriers by funding the digitization of these recordings by outside experts with specialized knowledge and equipment. Andy Meyer C’06 Director of the F.M. Johnson Archives and Special Collections, and Jessica Smith, Digital Processing Archivist, will then create online access points to make these recordings available to the public. Finally, the actual
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cassettes will be assessed, conserved, and re-housed following archival best practices. Collectively, these actions will ensure that these invaluable resources will be available for future generations of researchers. Supported in part by an award from the Illinois State Historical Records Advisory Board, through funding from the National Historical Publications and Records Commission, National Archives and Records Administration.
SUPPORT NORTH PARK STUDENTS THROUGH NORTH PARK RECOGNITION CLUBS
COMPASS SOCIETY
Designed especially for GOLD (Graduates of the Last Decade) alumni, this giving society recognizes emerging alumni leaders who commit to a gift of $300 or more each year. This can be done through a one-time annual gift, or through monthly installments of $25.
PRESIDENT’S CLUB
Perhaps North Park’s most well-known and established recognition society, the President’s Club recognizes donors of $1,000 or more each year.
OLD MAIN SOCIETY
Our newly introduced Old Main Society recognizes alumni and friends who make annual gifts of $5,000 or more.
HERITAGE CIRCLE
For those alumni and friends who wish to make a planned gift—as through a bequest in a will or designating the university as a retirement account beneficiary—the Heritage Circle membership ensures you will be forging a lasting legacy for future generations of North Parkers. Contact our office about other ways you may be able to realize both financial and tax benefits through various planned giving vehicles. You may also sign up for our newsletter “Dealing in Futures,” which profiles North Park Heritage Circle members and highlights examples of ways you can create a legacy for your alma mater while realizing financial and tax benefits through planned giving. All of the above annual gifts may be made through automatic monthly billing or other pledge payment arrangements.
For more information about any of these North Park giving societies, contact the Office of Advancement: 773-244-5790 toll-free at 866-366-8096 advancement@northpark.edu Office of Advancement North Park University 3225 W. Foster Ave., Box 6 Chicago, IL 60625 There is also more information about giving and our leadership societies on the North Park University website: www.northpark.edu/giving
ACROSS CAMPUS
NORTH PARK ALUMNI GRANT All students who completed an undergraduate degree at North Park University can enroll in graduate coursework with a 30% tuition reduction for Spring 2021 programs thanks to the University’s Alumni Grant. This grant may be used for individual courses or a whole program, for in-person or online courses. This grant cannot be combined with any other scholarships or tuition reductions that may be offered to you from North Park University. Class of 2020 We are excited to offer a 50% tuition reduction to the graduating class of 2020 who enroll for Spring 2021 in a North Park University graduate program. Choose a graduate degree program or graduate-level certificate offered by: School of Business and Nonprofit Management School of Education School of Music, Art, and Theatre School of Nursing and Health Sciences School of Professional Studies North Park Theological Seminary Online, on-campus, or hybrid options available. For more information, visit www.northpark.edu/gradadmissions or call 773-244-4880 to schedule a personal appointment
NORTH PARK FUND Annual Giving for Student Success
YOUR GIFT MATTERS—NOW MORE THAN EVER Your support of the North Park Fund can make a significant difference, especially during this unprecedented time. You’ll help to make scholarships and much-needed financial assistance available to students who want to pursue an excellent, faith-based education.
FINANCIAL AID FOR:
95 0/0
OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
78 /
00
OF SEMINARY STUDENTS
$13
MILLION MORE THAN IN ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AWARDED TO:
89 0/0
OF UNDERGRADUATES
74 0/0
OF SEMINARY STUDENTS
FROM THE HEART
“
I’ve known about North Park since the 6th grade, so I’m excited to be here. Music is where my heart is, and North Park is giving me so many great opportunities. I hope to become a musician and, someday, open my own music school. I am so very grateful that hearts are moved to help me live out my dreams and aspirations. Thank you for your generous support!
”
JONATHON GWESHE C’24 Music Education Major
MAKE YOUR GIFT TODAY. WINTER 2021 www.northpark.edu/give
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NONPROFIT US POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 930 CAROL STREAM, IL
3225 West Foster Avenue, Box 6 Chicago, Illinois 60625-4895
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